Vertex Spring 2026 Co-op, Combination Device Enabling Technology

Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc•Providence, RI

45d•$33 - $50•Onsite

About The Position

The Vertex Combination Device Enabling Technologies Co-Op program is a 6-month experiential training program for students currently working towards a Doctorate program in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or other related fields. If you are passionate, collaborative, and growth-minded, a co-op at Vertex will help you gain meaningful experience in our analytical development functional areas and serve as a launchpad for your career. This 2026 Co-Op position, titled Co-Op, Combination Device Enabling Technologies, offers a unique opportunity for a highly motivated PhD student to actively contribute to the advancement of our Biopharma CGT Combination Device Analytical Development capabilities. As a Co-Op, the individual will play a pivotal role in helping to build and enhance new capabilities for our Center of Excellence for combination device analytical development, with a specific focus on pioneering and implementing cutting-edge enabling technologies. This includes gaining hands-on experience and driving the application of advanced non-destructive analytical techniques such as applied spectroscopy (e.g., Raman spectroscopy, UV-Vis), and other non-destructive in-process testing technologies like Chemical Hyperspectral Imaging, Vacuum Decay, Helium Leak Detection, and MicroCurrent High-Voltage Leak Detection (HVLDmc), crucial for ensuring the quality and integrity of combination products, particularly autoinjectors and cell therapy delivery systems. The Co-Op will contribute to building proof-of-concept for analytical platforms, driving innovation in testing methodologies, and ensuring the highest standards of quality and efficiency in withing Combination Device CMC organization.

Requirements

Enrolled in a Ph.D. program in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or another related field
Demonstrated advanced theoretical and practical knowledge of engineering principles pertinent to device design and functionality (e.g., advanced mechanics, electronics, microfluidics, biomaterials, sensor technology).
Proven experience in independent research, experimental design, data analysis, and technical report writing.
Strong analytical, critical thinking, and advanced problem-solving skills.
Strong theoretical and practical understanding of analytical chemistry, material science, or spectroscopy principles. Experience with laboratory techniques and instrumentation, including spectroscopic methods (e.g., FTIR, Raman, UV-Vis) and/or other non-destructive testing techniques (e.g., Chemical Hyperspectral Imaging, Vacuum Decay, HVLD, functional testing of medical devices).
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented research environment.
Legal authorization to work in the United States, now and in the future. Please note that Vertex does not provide sponsorship for internships or entry level roles within this part of the organization.
You must be enrolled in an advanced degree program if graduating before June 2026
You must be available to work full-time, 40 hours per week from January - June 2026

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with challenges in characterization of autoinjectors or cell therapy products is a plus.

Responsibilities

Development and implementation of novel analytical methods utilizing applied spectroscopy or other non-destructive in-process testing technologies for combination devices.
Contribution to the establishment of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and best practices for the new capabilities within the Center of Excellence.
Presentation of project findings and data analysis, potentially leading to internal reports and presentations.